Mission, Vision, and Philosophy

Mission Statement

In partnership with Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Notre Dame School offers a quality Catholic education, welcoming students from diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and religious backgrounds in preschool through eighth grade. While facilitating the learning process, teachers also recognize and support parents in their role as primary educators of their children. Motivated by faith, teachers celebrate academic achievement and nurture in students a love of God, a sense of compassion for others, and recognition of the importance of service to others.

Vision Statement

Notre Dame School’s vision is to create a positive learning environment in which students develop strong personal faith and identity. Living the Gospel message inspires an appreciation for diversity in the world, compassion for those in need, and service to the community. Respect and recognition of the unique personalities, learning styles, and backgrounds of our students allows them to achieve success. Students are encouraged to set and evaluate goals tapping into their individual gifts and talents.

Philosophy

Notre Dame School is a Catholic elementary school serving the students of Santa Barbara and the surrounding communities. Acknowledging God’s presence in those around us, Notre Dame celebrates the unique gifts and talents each individual brings to the community, works in partnership with parents as primary educators of their children, and promotes peaceful, fair solutions to problems in a Christian environment. Notre Dame nurtures spiritual, academic, social, and physical development of students and welcomes families and students from all faith, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds.